U.S. international defender Berhalter joins 1860 Munich

MUNICH, Germany -- U.S. defender Gregg Berhalter has signed a two-year contract with German second-division team 1860 Munich.

The team said Sunday that Berhalter had joined on a free transfer from Energie Cottbus.

"We are convinced that he represents a significant reinforcement for our defense," 1860 manager Stefan Reuter said.

The 32-year-old Berhalter had been with Cottbus since 2002. He previously played in the Netherlands, with English club Crystal Palace and for the University of North Carolina.

Berhalter's contract at 1860 Munich runs through June 30, 2008. The club finished 13th in the German second division this past season -- one point clear of the relegation zone.

He was added to the U.S. World Cup roster last week after Cory Gibbs injured his knee.